Zoologists and TV presenters Chris Packham (left) and Megan McCubbin (right) tell Gina Rippon, author of The Lost Girls of Autism, how their neurodivergent brains have powered their careers Alistair Veryard
There was a jam-packed programme of talks and exhibits on offer at this year’s at Excel London, which took place from 18 to 20 October and attracted thousands of visitor of all ages.
Getting to grips with a plasma globe at the UK Atomic Energy Authority stand Alistair Veryard
With topics including the search for dark matter, how gaming has transformed technology, how animals treat themselves with medicine and the future of human reproduction, there was a huge range to explore.
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Medic Zoe Williams reveals how women and girls can hack their hormones Alistair Veryard
Highlights included broadcaster and campaigner Chris Packham revealing the six species that have meant the most to his career, and GP Zoe Williams’s talk about the hormonal fluctuations that take place over the course of a menstrual cycle, and how understanding these can empower girls and women.
Experiencing the joys of flight with the Royal Air Force 5. Building a molecule at the Middlesex University stand Alistair Veryard
After the talks, many people took the chance to meet with the speakers, from TikTok science star Big Manny to This Is Going to Hurt author and former doctor Adam Kay, and ask them questions while getting their books signed.
Building a molecule at the Middlesex University stand Alistair Veryard
Visitors also got to see the 91av podcast, The World, the Universe and Us, recorded live by Penny Sarchet and Rowan Hooper.
Historian of science Michael Wright delves into the mysteries of the 2000-year-old Antikythera mechanism with author Jo Marchant Alistair Veryard
On the show floor, people could get hands-on with all kinds of exhibits (including giant insects, for those who dared).
Edinburgh Napier University gets into the Halloween spirit Alistair Veryard
Visitors also explored a hospital of the future, showcasing surgical robots and augmented reality; took virtual rollercoaster rides; discovered how technology is transforming farming and more.
A packed audience for TikTok star and author Big Manny, with a large model of the moon, courtesy of the National Space Centre, in the background Alistair Veryard
For the first time, there were also workshops on everything from forensics to the science of whisky.
Engrossed by the 91av Live Science Hunt Alistair Veryard
A rapt audience watches Big Manny’s talk Alistair Veryard
Chemical biologist and Great British Bake Off finalist Josh Smalley delights with the “spooktacular science of baking” Alistair Veryard
Geologist and science communicator Chris Jackson asks whether geology can save the world Alistair Veryard
Visitors explore how to feed the planet sustainably at the future of food and agriculture stand Alistair Veryard
Quantum physicist Maria Violaris predicts how quantum computing could change our lives Alistair Veryard
The talks were all recorded and will be available to stream online for 12 months. See for details of how to get access – and sign up for next year’s show, taking place from 10 to 11 October 2026, with schools day on 12 October. An exclusive offer on tickets is running until the end of October.
